BENIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday unveiled a sweeping education reform programme aimed at upgrading schools, strengthening teacher capacity, and expanding vocational training across the state.
The initiative, driven by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, includes the rebuilding of dilapidated schools into modern facilities with STEM laboratories, functional classrooms, sanitation infrastructure, and teaching aids.
Under the “EduRescue Initiative,” out-of-school children are being reintegrated with free books and learning materials provided to support their return.
Teachers are central to the reforms, with recruitment, training, and digital empowerment prioritized. Tablets and standardized lesson scripts are being distributed to ensure uniform teaching across public schools.
The programme also introduces vocational certification for all students completing junior secondary school. Technical colleges in Igarra, Irrua, and Benin are undergoing rehabilitation, while a new National College is being developed in Ovia.
The government has also intensified regulation of the education sector, shutting down unaccredited schools and “miracle centres.” Partnerships with WAEC and NECO are in place to curb examination malpractice.
At Ambrose Alli University, construction is ongoing for two 1,500-capacity lecture theatres and a 600-bed hostel. At Usen Polytechnic, work has resumed on a 5-kilometre road abandoned for more than 20 years.
The EdoCert 2.0 system has been introduced to digitize academic records and make certificates available online.
The reforms include a bursary scheme for indigent students and the adoption of the Federal Government’s NELFund programme to expand access to education. Civic education, guidance and counselling, and sports competitions such as the Principals’ Cup and Governor’s Cup are also being revived.
